Gulf nation is exploring the acquisition of Indian defence systems, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and Akashteer air defence network
India and the United Arab Emirates are engaged in discussions over the possible sale of some of New Delhi’s most advanced defence systems, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Akashteer air defence network, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.
The talks come as the UAE accelerates efforts to strengthen its military capabilities following recent instability in the Middle East and growing concerns over regional security.
Sources with direct knowledge of the discussions said the negotiations remain at an early stage but are progressing rapidly.
“The UAE has shown interest in a number of our weapon systems, including BrahMos and Akashteer. The talks between India and the UAE are at initial stages and are progressing fast,” a source familiar with the matter said.
Neither Indian authorities nor the UAE foreign ministry have publicly commented on the reported discussions.
BrahMos and Akashteer draw interest
The BrahMos missile, jointly developed by India and Russia, is regarded as one of the world’s fastest operational cruise missiles and can be launched from land, sea and air platforms. The missile has emerged as one of India’s most sought-after defence exports in recent years.
Akashteer, developed by Bharat Electronics Limited in collaboration with the Indian Army, is a fully automated air defence command-and-control system designed to integrate multiple sensors and weapons platforms into a unified air defence network.
Defence experts say both systems could significantly enhance the UAE’s ability to respond to evolving regional threats.
Regional security concerns drive procurement
The reported interest comes as the UAE reviews its defence preparedness following heightened tensions in the Gulf region and concerns surrounding the security of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.
Abu Dhabi has increasingly diversified its defence partnerships in recent years. Earlier this year, the UAE signed a defence cooperation agreement with South Korea reportedly valued at more than $35 billion.
Analysts say a broader supplier base provides the UAE with greater strategic flexibility while reducing dependence on any single defence partner.
Russia approval likely required
Any sale of the BrahMos missile would require approval from Russia, which jointly developed the system with India. However, sources familiar with the matter indicated that such approval is unlikely to become a major obstacle given Moscow’s strong ties with Abu Dhabi.
Defence researchers note that the UAE already operates advanced American systems, including the THAAD missile defence system, Patriot air defence batteries and MGM-168 ATACMS missiles.
Akashteer could complement these capabilities by integrating information from multiple platforms and improving overall battlefield awareness.
Growing India-UAE strategic partnership
The potential defence deal reflects rapidly expanding ties between India and the UAE, which have strengthened cooperation across trade, energy, technology and security sectors in recent years.
Both countries have also explored joint defence manufacturing initiatives and broader military cooperation.
Sources indicated that New Delhi views its growing defence partnership with Abu Dhabi as strategically significant amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region and increasing competition for influence among major Gulf powers.
India’s defence exports gain momentum
Interest in Indian-made weapons has risen sharply following India’s increased focus on defence exports and indigenous military production.
Officials said the use of advanced Indian weapon systems, including BrahMos, during last year’s conflict with Pakistan generated fresh international interest from prospective buyers.
India has since secured agreements to export BrahMos missiles to Vietnam and Indonesia, while several other countries, including Thailand, South Africa, Brazil and Chile, have reportedly expressed interest in the system.
The Philippines became the first foreign customer for BrahMos in 2022.
According to government data, India’s defence exports crossed $4 billion in the financial year ending March 2026, marking a dramatic rise from just $7.26 million recorded in 2013-14.
The potential UAE deal, if finalised, would represent one of India’s most significant defence export achievements and further strengthen its position as an emerging global supplier of advanced military technology.
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